F1: Hamilton, Bottas and Mercedes ‘not to blame’ for lack of competition, says Brawn

Brawn: Merc not to blame for perfect start

With Lewis Hamilton and Valtteri Bottas securing yet another 1-2 for Mercedes last weekend many Formula 1 pundits and fans have accused the sport of becoming too predictable and boring.

In the eight races this season Hamilton has six wins while Bottas has two. The Mercedes duo lead the drivers’ standings and the Silver Arrows are flying high at the top of the constructors’ championship.

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Following Merc’s domination at the French Grand Prix they are on course for another championship double. In fact, if they keep up their form Mercedes could wrap up the constructors’ title in record time.

Ross Brawn, F1’s managing director of motorsports and technical director, has praised Mercedes for their perfect start to the season.

While Brawn believes that there must be more competition at the front of the grid, Mercedes and their drivers are not to blame for their eight successive wins.

Quoted by GP Fans, Brawn said: “If Mercedes keeps up this pace it could seal the constructors’ championship by Monza [in September], with a third of the season still left.

“Let’s be clear: Lewis, Valtteri and Mercedes are not to blame for a season verging on perfection, and it should be obvious that the rule changes we want to introduce are not directed against a team that is rewriting the record books.

“But we must all understand that the sport we love needs more competition, so that other teams can also aspire to podium finishes and it is not just a few powerful teams that dominate.”

Lowe leaves Williams

Former Williams chief technical officer Paddy Lowe, who has been on an extended leave of absence since 5 March, will leave the Formula 1 team and step down from the board of directors with immediate effect.

Lowe said: “After a period of careful reflection I have reached the decision that I will not return to work at Williams. I wish all my previous colleagues the very best to meet the challenges ahead, which I am sure they will do. I would especially like to thank the Williams fans who are so supportive.”

Deputy team principal Claire Williams added: “We understand and respect the decision Paddy has reached and wish him well for the future.”

Marko: Gasly-Kvyat rumours are false

Planet F1 asks the question: is the writing on the wall for Red Bull Racing driver Pierre Gasly?

The Frenchman only scored one point in his home race last weekend and following a tough start to the season there has speculation he could be replaced by Toro Rosso driver Daniil Kvyat.

Despite the speculation, Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko has dismissed the claims.

When asked if Kvyat could replace Gasly, Marko said: “No, that’s a false rumour. Last week Nico Hulkenberg would replace him, now Daniil Kvyat is our substitute.”